Groundbreaking work is underway in Northern Virginia, with two pioneering organizations coming together to empower communities of opportunity. The Northern Virginia Science Center, under construction now, will be the first full-size science center the region has ever seen, opening the doors to STEM learners of all ages. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Catalyst Development Corporation (CDC) to the Launch the Future campaign as a Founding Partner! This new community development corporation will activate under-resourced entrepreneurs and historically underutilized businesses in the federal contracting space—helping to scale their businesses and advance capabilities in emerging technology. Founder Craig Ridley, who has served on the board of the Northern Virginia Science Center Foundation since 2017, sees a future of possibility:
“There’s nothing like the Catalyst Development Corporation or the Northern Virginia Science Center here. We’re bringing something innovative to the region, and the partnership between us will be so impactful. Powering underrepresented founders and investing in STEM education, they both strengthen local, regional, even national economy. This is not charity: this is smart investment with a ripple effect.”
CDC will sponsor Innovation Studio I in the future Northern Virginia Science Center. The Studios will be home to ever-changing, community-responsive programming, including the in-person elements of CDC’s startup foundry and accelerator program for entrepreneurs in Studio I. “We’ll host what we’re calling the Pollination Space,” Craig shares, “connecting these regional founders with hands-on training and expert mentorship. It’s a new model for community reinvestment and building the workforce pipeline as a vital stimulus within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
And the workforce pipeline in our area has room for opportunity: with thousands of STEM job openings in Northern Virginia, there’s a major gap to fill. As CDC nurtures STEM start-ups, the Northern Virginia Science Center will play a complementary role, broadening access to STEM for both young people and learners of all ages. “Our missions are beneficially aligned,” says Craig. “The Science Center is creating STEM for all, fostering that love of discovery and exploration. It all ties in. I encourage other business leaders to join me in being first movers in this exciting opportunity.”
While Innovation Studio I is taken, there are still two other Studios open for sponsorship at the Northern Virginia Science Center, as well as other availability. Whether you’re a citizen, philanthropist, or business, we’d welcome your partnership. . Email cao@childsci.org to start a conversation.
.png)
